Thank you Nigel. Was noticing the tiniest indentations on my mouthpiece i just purchased a couple months ago and knew I had to apply some pads but had zero direction on how to do so. This helped a ton.
The eBay seller who sold me my Alto included some of these in the package. I had no idea what they were for but I'm glad he included them, because as a beginner they make a ton of difference in playing comfort.
Ive been playing for less than 1 month Yamaha YAS-280. Supplied with Yamaha 4c. I was advised this would be a good place to start. I'm enjoying it thoroughly. Embouchure comes and goes but is slowly becoming more consistent. I just placed a mouthpiece patch on board and felt instantly more comfortable and subsequently more confident. Embouchure one step further in the right direction. Whoo Hoo...! Many thanks.
Ive had my sax for 6 months and recently the patch started to fall apart. It had been deteriorating for a couple of months with a couple of ridges but one of them started to peel so I eventually removed the whole thing. As a learner it is great to have these videos to learn how to do these things and to appreciate why they are needed.
Thanks a lot, Mc. Always my great teacher at Sax School. I actually didn't know what these patches were meant for. I bought wiping clothes, and they came with these little patches that I didn't know what they are for. Of course, I had been agonizing over the realization that my teeth are digging into my mouthpiece. I'm going to paste a patch on it. Asante sana.
Thank you very much. I received a alto saxophone care kit and this came with it except mine is clear, and I never knew what it was. Now I stumbled upon your video and it helped me greatly. Thank you.
Thanks Nigel - very helpful. As a complete beginner of the sax, I've found the teeth marks on my mouth piece to be helpful to help me understand the (squeaky!) sound that I've been making. You did a great Sax School video on the position of your mouth on the mouth piece in relation to the reed, and since seeing that (and where my teeth marks in the mouth piece are) I've been able to adjust the position and it has really improved the sound I make - plus my ability to achieve the higher notes. Now I have that under my belt, I feel I'm able to try the patches.
This is very helpful, I did not know that could happen without a mouthpiece patch, as a beginner this really helped me, I am usually in discomfort because when I play u can feel the vibration on your teeth, thank you so much:)
Thanks, Nigel. I inherited a mouthpiece that had a patch with a bothersome deep ridge. I never used patches before, and I didn't know they could be easily removed. Now that I've seen your video I'll go and buy a new one and replace that bad boy.
I use a mouthpiece patch. I have not changed it yet. It's been on for several months. After watching this video I will check my wear and probably replace the patch with a new one. Thanks.
I do use mouthpiece patches on both the soprano and alto but only change them every year or so. My original teacher taught me to have quite a bit of muscle power in the embouchure, so that's probably why. I remember the days, long ago, that we used tire patches and made our own. That was prior to manufactured mouthpiece patches. Thank goodness the manufactured ones don't have that tire taste!
Yuck. Not tasty at all. Yes, bicycle tire patch kits. Let me save you the nastiness and money, the real mouthpiece patches from the local music store are MUCH better! Thanks for your videos! I've tried my firs Legere Signature reed lately and love it!!
Thanks for this vid. When replaceing the pad, you said to just do it. But I am wondering what would be good to give a careful rinse to get rid of leftover glue from the old one, and also other «things» that simultanious could be removed from the edges of where the old pad was sitting, before putting on the new one? Regards from Norway 🇳🇴
I've been holding off putting one on because I thought placement would depend on how much mouthpiece you're taking in, it seems that's not the case. Unfortunately I was punched in the mouth and lost teeth top and bottom, but only on one side, so I can't really hold the mouthpiece with my teeth anyway. I'm currently playing a "pocket sax", with an alto mouthpiece, so it's a problem when I need to uncover all of the holes, if I bite hard it turns sideways! I've been thinking of a mouthguard to bridge the gap, but not sure if that would work. I'm still getting lots out of your videos, even though a "real saxophone" might still be out of reach for a while yet, even the cheapest is too expensive on disability pension. Keep up the good work! :)
Nigel, I have been using the clear, thin, plastic patches on my metal MP for years. I found that the black rubber ones were much thicker and tended to disintegrate in a very short time. Maybe you should check with Reeds Direct the varying thicknesses of pads, for all of our information?
In my experience some newer patches do not stick well and move over time leaving residue that sticks to my lips. The old patches are still holding. Not sure it's a new glue compound or what. In any case I threw out all my new patches of that particular brand.
Hello!! Thank you so much for your videos. I got one of my front teeth fixed after a little accident, and I really need to reduce the vibration to avoid the risk of breaking the arrangement... Would you recommend me any other thing (besides the patch)? thank you once again!
Hey Michelle. A mouthpiece patch is your best bet. If you find it’s not enough cushioning for your teeth you could just try doubling them up one on top of the other. Hope that helps.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool thank you so much for answering this fast!! Yes, I thought about that but didn't know if would be too high cause I bought the most robust patch. I'll try with two, so! thank you again for your content :)
I bought patches for my horns, but am afraid to mess with my tone (not broken, why fix). I guess I’m just too set in my ways... I’m going to try it at your word; thanks, I think I need that!
Nice video, thanks. Changed the patch for the first time, passivley chewed a hole in the previous one (not so nice teeth). I does not play very nice with a hole in the patch because it kinda fixes you position in a wrong way. My mouthpiece came with a new patch, can't imagine playing without one, would probably hurt my teeth like hell.
Try a dental mouth guard... bleaching tray. I bought some mold it yourself guards on ebay and no longer need to spend on patches that don’t last. I’ve saved so many hard rubber mouthpieces with this method.
Hi nigel. My niece "cracked" (no chips, just cracked) one of my synthetic reeds but it still kinda works (?) im a new sax player, should i still use it in performing or just as a practice reed? Thanks
I appreciate the principle and after 50 years playing I've arrived at patches. However I find that they don't survive more than 3 or 4 numbers before they peel and lift off at some point. Very disconcerting in the middle of Ornithology to have a rubber flap "flapping" about on the mouthpiece or even detaching and sliding to a different place! I have tried impact adhesive which is better but that leads to spitting out black crumbs all over the stand or the drummer when he's speeding up! In view of your success, I reckon that you know something that I should! I'm just this very minute about to fill the tooth groove with acrylic powder and activator, ready for reshaping after it hardens. Thanks for you videos.... TTFN
Try a dental mouth guard... bleaching tray. I bought some mold it yourself guards on ebay and no longer need to spend on patches that don’t last. I’ve saved so many hard rubber mouthpieces with this method.
Try a dental mouth guard... bleaching tray. I bought some mold it yourself guards on ebay and no longer need to spend on patches that don’t last. I’ve saved so many hard rubber mouthpieces with this method.
McGill Music Sax School Yes they work well thanks for your tips as well!! Personally my teeth are too sharp and chipped so I bite through patches and mouthpieces a lot.
I find my thumb keeps slipping off the octave key, especially when I am playing fast passages. Do you think a patch there would help, or do you have another suggestion? Thank you. I like your videos!
Hi Nigel, I've been playing the tenor sax for just 4 1/2 months for my high school marching band, but I've picked it up incredibly fast; I've been told I already play better than a majority of my section that's been playing for 4-5 years, and I'm ready for some more high end equipment in the hopes of frequent practicing to get to a more professional level of playing, as well as simply for my own enjoyment. So I'm looking at getting a Sax Dakota SDT-1200 SS saxophone, a Pomarico Jazz Crystal Mouthpiece, a Rico-H Ligature, and a Legere reed. Do you know if this is a good combo? Is a good mouthpiece really worth the upgrade? And are Legere Reeds worth it?
+Champion Urbosa Great question Champion. I haven’t tried that sax or mouthpiece, but I use Legere Signature reeds on all my horns. Big fan. Great to hear you are making great progress on your sax!
Kuwayway Logic Nah, 2 1/2 months later a lot has changed. I now use Legere reeds faithfully, as I find them to be far more reliable with the same great sound of a cane reed. I just ordered a Pomarico Crystal mouthpiece, albeit not the jazz edition, and it arrives wednesday. As for the ligature, I ordered a Rovner Star to go with it. And I've decided not to buy a new saxophone, I'm just sticking with my ol' reliable Yamaha
My problem is that the patch slides off after about 20 minutes of playing. During one bandstand gig this weekend I ended up having to fit 2 new patches as they wouldn’t stick. Would that be a brand problem or something else.
hey! i've bought some from thomann, but ince i pull of the adhesive paper they dont stick anymore? but i somehow cant play any notes without the patch (always played WITH them) but now that its not sticking unless i stick in on with the adhesive paper, its not playing some notes? should i GLUE them on? doesnt seem right
Try a dental mouth guard... bleaching tray. I bought some mold it yourself guards on ebay and no longer need to spend on patches that don’t last. I’ve saved so many hard rubber mouthpieces with this method.
+matt Nothing wrong with that Matt, it just depends what style of playing you are interested in. I’ve always played jazz, but actually did a classical saxophone degree and have worked with symphony orchestras. I often practice classical etudes, as well jazz standards.
Not as simple as that I n afraid I ( and bc a good few people I know) find that the patch after a few days starts to rotate and shortly part of the patch is hanging over the side of the mouthpiece which is an irritant and it has to be replaced usually every few days ir maybe a bc week or two max. Any advice please how this can be avoided
Hi Micah. Lots of resources on my channel here but a great place to start is my free lesson bundle which has a ‘getting started’ course. You can get it here: www.mcgillmusic.com/saxophone-tool-kit
Hi Nigel, I use patches on both my alto and tenor. What thickness is best.....I have seen them advertised at 0.3mm and 0.8mm. Are the thicker ones better? Due to an accident one of my front teeth is a bit pointed and this tends to go through the patches quite quickly, so I prefer thicker ones.Do you favour a brand or the generic ones you can get from China via ebay???
Good question. I generally use the thicker ones - they feel more comfortable for me. Lots of different brands available but in my opinion it doesn’t matter which. I’ve used generic ones in the past and they have worked great.
Yes. I came here to say, that last week, i accidentally damaged my mouhtpiece by making a slit like hole in it, making a piece come off, and my left tooth is sinking right into it! What do I do? Is thst normal? Its is bad? How can I avoid that? Thanks McGill (sry dont know ur first name ) for these videos. Very helpful! :')
Hi. It depends on what sort of patch you have on your mouthpiece. If it is just a normal rubber mouthpiece patch that sits on the top of your mouthpiece, you just need to peel it off and replace it with a new one. They are readily available at most music shops.
Hi Nigel, I have a metal Berg Larsen tenor sax mouthpiece. These mouthpieces come with a small black hard rubber section glued into a cut-out slot in the metal of the mouthpiece. I guess the designer's idea was that this hard rubber piece is replaceable if it gets worn. I still use mouthpiece patches but the problem is they don't usually stay stuck for as long as on other mouthpieces as the ridge on the edges of the hard rubber insert allow moisture to get into the glue of the patch. Can you think of anything I can do to get the patches to stick for longer ?
Good question. I’m guessing your hard rubber insert on your Berg is worn a little. I have heard of some people replacing the actual insert to give you a smooth surface again - that way the mouthpiece patch will stay “stuck”.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool Thank for the reply which does confirms I am not alone in think trying to find a solution to this. I will take my mouth piece into my tech who has all sorts of machines and see if he can take out my current insert and grind it down so its more flush with the rest of the mouthpiece so the patches should hopefully grip for longer !
What would be a good mouthpiece patch for my berg Larson alto sax metal mouthpiece? I bought some Yamaha mouthpiece patches and I’ve been cutting them down and it works for now but I’d like to get one that actually fits.
Hi Nigel! which size would you recommend? I see patches come in 0.3mm and 0.8mm thickness, do they affect the sound of a mouthpiece like muting vibrations?
Good question Raul, I prefer the thicker ones, they feel more comfortable to me, but it’s personal preference. I’m not sure the thickness affects the sound, but for me the thicker ones are more comfortable. Are you using a metal or hard rubber mouthpiece?
6 років тому
I have a rubber one and I just bought my first metal one, like you it's the Otto Link super tone master, I really loved the Wanne Durga but it's over twice the price of the Otto Link, so it's out of my budget, and I chose based on your suggestions from your mouthpiece video, so thanks for the valuable insight!
I don't chew my mouthpiece badly, unless I'm working on tricks or altissimo. And I've tried some expensive mouthpieces but keep going back to a cheap Yamaha 5c. But I have the thin clear patches on.
I just started to play saxophone and practice consistently everyday averagely 2 hours without rest break, it’s been the 5th month since I started practicing daily without failed... I do not have uneven teeth, but there is still an obvious ridge/bite mark on the top of my mouthpiece, and like you said my teeth is automatically only going back to the same place whenever I put my mouthpiece in the mouth... I believed I have already developed so many bad habits so far... and the most terrible bad habit that makes both of my upper front teeth feel pain/sore after finish practicing, sometimes during practicing as well ... I am so worried as this is not only affecting my playing and embouchure problems but also my health problems might rise in long term (for example my situation: teeth pain and headache, bottom lip biting and sore) I wish to overcome this major issue on embouchure, what should I do ? Do I need to get rid of the current mouthpiece with ridge/bite mark, and get a new mouthpiece to start all over again ? In this situation do you still suggest to put the patches ? Either on the current mouthpiece (with ridge/bite mark) or on the new mouthpiece? Your reply and suggestion is much appreciated !!! I thank you in advance !! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🤗🤗
Great question. I would just use a patch on your current mouthpiece. Since you already have a ridge on the mouthpiece you’ll probably find the patches wear through faster, but they are much cheaper than a new mouthpiece and will make playing more comfortable.
I have mouthpiece patches on both my clarinet and soprano sax and I find that I always have some “leaking issues” when I play my clarinet or sax. Maybe I am still getting use to embouchure?
Hi Gemini Dreamer2, I’m guessing the leaking is in the corners of your mouth? If so try thinking more of having a “round” shape with your mouth, kind of like a drawstring bag. That way you are keeping your corners in and it should stop any air leaks. Hope this helps.
The other benefit is that they stop your teeth skating around on the beak of the mcp. I use clear very thin ones that seem to last forever. No splits or gouges that can happen with rubber patches.
According to my teacher (ex military bandsman), the nerves of the front top teeth are damaged by long term playing without a patch. Vibrations are transmitted when a bare mouthpiece is used, eventually (over many years), leading to loss of the teeth. BMTS - Bare Mouthpiece Vibration Syndrome. Industrial injury compensation anyone? ;)
You forgot to mention they come in different Thickness. The clear ones are thinner than the black ones. On alto and Tenor i play the Black ones, on my Soprano i can only play the CLEAR (THINNER).
Hi, yes I have used mouthpiece patches for several years now to protect my mouthpieces from teeth damage. I also find this gives the tone a more mellow sound. Alan Harper South Australia.
Hello Nigel, I have a metal mouthpiece for my tenor sax (Silver Guardala Crescent) and I've tried multiple times to get a mouthpiece patch onto it. After 5 minutes of playing, it slips right off, and I've tried trimming the oatch as well to fit the mouthpiece completely, but it still will not work. Any suggestions?
I use them, but only because the vibration of the mouthpiece gives me a headache. It's a silly reason, I suppose, but after having braces as a teen, the vibration killed me.
Thank you Nigel. Was noticing the tiniest indentations on my mouthpiece i just purchased a couple months ago and knew I had to apply some pads but had zero direction on how to do so. This helped a ton.
The eBay seller who sold me my Alto included some of these in the package. I had no idea what they were for but I'm glad he included them, because as a beginner they make a ton of difference in playing comfort.
Ive been playing for less than 1 month Yamaha YAS-280. Supplied with Yamaha 4c. I was advised this would be a good place to start. I'm enjoying it thoroughly. Embouchure comes and goes but is slowly becoming more consistent. I just placed a mouthpiece patch on board and felt instantly more comfortable and subsequently more confident. Embouchure one step further in the right direction. Whoo Hoo...! Many thanks.
Ive had my sax for 6 months and recently the patch started to fall apart. It had been deteriorating for a couple of months with a couple of ridges but one of them started to peel so I eventually removed the whole thing. As a learner it is great to have these videos to learn how to do these things and to appreciate why they are needed.
Thanks a lot, Mc. Always my great teacher at Sax School. I actually didn't know what these patches were meant for. I bought wiping clothes, and they came with these little patches that I didn't know what they are for. Of course, I had been agonizing over the realization that my teeth are digging into my mouthpiece. I'm going to paste a patch on it. Asante sana.
You’re welcome! Glad it was helpful.
Just starting playing sax, used to play recorders when I was a kid, cheers for video dead easy to follow 😁
Thank you very much. I received a alto saxophone care kit and this came with it except mine is clear, and I never knew what it was. Now I stumbled upon your video and it helped me greatly. Thank you.
Thanks Nigel - very helpful. As a complete beginner of the sax, I've found the teeth marks on my mouth piece to be helpful to help me understand the (squeaky!) sound that I've been making. You did a great Sax School video on the position of your mouth on the mouth piece in relation to the reed, and since seeing that (and where my teeth marks in the mouth piece are) I've been able to adjust the position and it has really improved the sound I make - plus my ability to achieve the higher notes. Now I have that under my belt, I feel I'm able to try the patches.
+Anne Owen Good stuff Anne. Great to hear these videos have been helpful!
Honestly couldn't play without one of these.
Never played a Sax in my life but just bought 'el-cheapo' one from Amazon, so starting off with a patch seems like a good habbit. 😄
Go for it!
This is very helpful, I did not know that could happen without a mouthpiece patch, as a beginner this really helped me, I am usually in discomfort because when I play u can feel the vibration on your teeth, thank you so much:)
Thank you. I've been wondering what these things were
Thanks Nigel I have applied one to my mouthpiece also :)
Cool!
Thanks, Nigel. I inherited a mouthpiece that had a patch with a bothersome deep ridge. I never used patches before, and I didn't know they could be easily removed. Now that I've seen your video I'll go and buy a new one and replace that bad boy.
+Martin Heinsdorf Go for it Martin!
I use a mouthpiece patch. I have not changed it yet. It's been on for several months. After watching this video I will check my wear and probably replace the patch with a new one. Thanks.
+George Monroe Good stuff George. Glad the video was helpful.
I do use mouthpiece patches on both the soprano and alto but only change them every year or so. My original teacher taught me to have quite a bit of muscle power in the embouchure, so that's probably why. I remember the days, long ago, that we used tire patches and made our own. That was prior to manufactured mouthpiece patches. Thank goodness the manufactured ones don't have that tire taste!
+Marge C Yeah funny. I’ve never tried to make my own patches. What do you use? Bicycle tyre? Tasty!
Yuck. Not tasty at all. Yes, bicycle tire patch kits. Let me save you the nastiness and money, the real mouthpiece patches from the local music store are MUCH better! Thanks for your videos! I've tried my firs Legere Signature reed lately and love it!!
I agree!
Thanks for this vid. When replaceing the pad, you said to just do it. But I am wondering what would be good to give a careful rinse to get rid of leftover glue from the old one, and also other «things» that simultanious could be removed from the edges of where the old pad was sitting, before putting on the new one? Regards from Norway 🇳🇴
Very helpful, just started playing and bought one
WoW thx I just discover the comfort of a mouth piece I was skeptical 🤨 but I love it
I've been holding off putting one on because I thought placement would depend on how much mouthpiece you're taking in, it seems that's not the case. Unfortunately I was punched in the mouth and lost teeth top and bottom, but only on one side, so I can't really hold the mouthpiece with my teeth anyway. I'm currently playing a "pocket sax", with an alto mouthpiece, so it's a problem when I need to uncover all of the holes, if I bite hard it turns sideways! I've been thinking of a mouthguard to bridge the gap, but not sure if that would work. I'm still getting lots out of your videos, even though a "real saxophone" might still be out of reach for a while yet, even the cheapest is too expensive on disability pension. Keep up the good work! :)
Nigel, I have been using the clear, thin, plastic patches on my metal MP for years. I found that the black rubber ones were much thicker and tended to disintegrate in a very short time. Maybe you should check with Reeds Direct the varying thicknesses of pads, for all of our information?
In my experience some newer patches do not stick well and move over time leaving residue that sticks to my lips. The old patches are still holding. Not sure it's a new glue compound or what. In any case I threw out all my new patches of that particular brand.
Hello!! Thank you so much for your videos. I got one of my front teeth fixed after a little accident, and I really need to reduce the vibration to avoid the risk of breaking the arrangement... Would you recommend me any other thing (besides the patch)? thank you once again!
Hey Michelle. A mouthpiece patch is your best bet. If you find it’s not enough cushioning for your teeth you could just try doubling them up one on top of the other. Hope that helps.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool thank you so much for answering this fast!! Yes, I thought about that but didn't know if would be too high cause I bought the most robust patch. I'll try with two, so! thank you again for your content :)
But what about when you need to clean the adhesive off from the previous patch?
That normally just rubs off pretty easily. I’d avoid using any cleaning products though.
My teacher recommended these! And I’m like where do I put them on the mouthpiece? I was just too worried about it going too far up and too far down
Good point mark - I find they just need to be slightly down from the tip of the mouthpiece to be most comfortable with your top teeth.
Does the patch also help with maintaining correct embouchure?
It does make it more comfortable to play.
I bought patches for my horns, but am afraid to mess with my tone (not broken, why fix). I guess I’m just too set in my ways... I’m going to try it at your word; thanks, I think I need that!
Nice video, thanks. Changed the patch for the first time, passivley chewed a hole in the previous one (not so nice teeth). I does not play very nice with a hole in the patch because it kinda fixes you position in a wrong way. My mouthpiece came with a new patch, can't imagine playing without one, would probably hurt my teeth like hell.
This is very helpful. Thanks man
No worries!
For someone with sensitive teeth this is a godsend for that reason also!
Try a dental mouth guard... bleaching tray. I bought some mold it yourself guards on ebay and no longer need to spend on patches that don’t last. I’ve saved so many hard rubber mouthpieces with this method.
I have had a root canal on my right front tooth and my left tooth is literally a double root , that’s what it feels like, so it was a godsend
Thanks for the info very good
Hi nigel. My niece "cracked" (no chips, just cracked) one of my synthetic reeds but it still kinda works (?) im a new sax player, should i still use it in performing or just as a practice reed? Thanks
+FriskyLemonade Good question. I guess I was only suggest using it if it still feels and sounds ok. Otherwise, treat yourself to a new one!
I appreciate the principle and after 50 years playing I've arrived at patches.
However I find that they don't survive more than 3 or 4 numbers before they peel and lift off at some point. Very disconcerting in the middle of Ornithology to have a rubber flap "flapping" about on the mouthpiece or even detaching and sliding to a different place!
I have tried impact adhesive which is better but that leads to spitting out black crumbs all
over the stand or the drummer when he's speeding up!
In view of your success, I reckon that you know something that I should!
I'm just this very minute about to fill the tooth groove with acrylic powder and activator, ready for reshaping after it hardens.
Thanks for you videos....
TTFN
Try a dental mouth guard... bleaching tray. I bought some mold it yourself guards on ebay and no longer need to spend on patches that don’t last. I’ve saved so many hard rubber mouthpieces with this method.
Hi Nigel. If you take off a mouthpiece patch from one mouthpiece, could you put it on another mouthpiece or store it somewhere? (mouthpiece trials)
Try a dental mouth guard... bleaching tray. I bought some mold it yourself guards on ebay and no longer need to spend on patches that don’t last. I’ve saved so many hard rubber mouthpieces with this method.
That’s interesting, thanks for sharing.
McGill Music Sax School Yes they work well thanks for your tips as well!! Personally my teeth are too sharp and chipped so I bite through patches and mouthpieces a lot.
I find my thumb keeps slipping off the octave key, especially when I am playing fast passages. Do you think a patch there would help, or do you have another suggestion? Thank you. I like your videos!
Hi Nigel, I've been playing the tenor sax for just 4 1/2 months for my high school marching band, but I've picked it up incredibly fast; I've been told I already play better than a majority of my section that's been playing for 4-5 years, and I'm ready for some more high end equipment in the hopes of frequent practicing to get to a more professional level of playing, as well as simply for my own enjoyment.
So I'm looking at getting a Sax Dakota SDT-1200 SS saxophone, a Pomarico Jazz Crystal Mouthpiece, a Rico-H Ligature, and a Legere reed. Do you know if this is a good combo? Is a good mouthpiece really worth the upgrade? And are Legere Reeds worth it?
+Champion Urbosa Great question Champion. I haven’t tried that sax or mouthpiece, but I use Legere Signature reeds on all my horns. Big fan. Great to hear you are making great progress on your sax!
McGill Music Sax School Thanks so much for replying! Have you ever tried a crystal mouthpiece? I've read good reviews about them
McGill Music Sax School drx#z
Kuwayway Logic Nah, 2 1/2 months later a lot has changed. I now use Legere reeds faithfully, as I find them to be far more reliable with the same great sound of a cane reed. I just ordered a Pomarico Crystal mouthpiece, albeit not the jazz edition, and it arrives wednesday. As for the ligature, I ordered a Rovner Star to go with it. And I've decided not to buy a new saxophone, I'm just sticking with my ol' reliable Yamaha
I wouldn't use a new saxophone to march with in case you collide
My problem is that the patch slides off after about 20 minutes of playing. During one bandstand gig this weekend I ended up having to fit 2 new patches as they wouldn’t stick. Would that be a brand problem or something else.
hey! i've bought some from thomann, but ince i pull of the adhesive paper they dont stick anymore? but i somehow cant play any notes without the patch (always played WITH them) but now that its not sticking unless i stick in on with the adhesive paper, its not playing some notes? should i GLUE them on? doesnt seem right
Should you use alto/tenor patches on bari? I can't find any patches specifically for bari.
Good question. I would suggest using tenor patches.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool Ok thank you so much!
I use them, and there are very helpful. I’d rather change the patches than the mouthpiece itself.
Try a dental mouth guard... bleaching tray. I bought some mold it yourself guards on ebay and no longer need to spend on patches that don’t last. I’ve saved so many hard rubber mouthpieces with this method.
What r ur thoughts on sax players focusing on classical pieces n relying on music sheets only? Is improvising a must on saxophone?
+matt Nothing wrong with that Matt, it just depends what style of playing you are interested in. I’ve always played jazz, but actually did a classical saxophone degree and have worked with symphony orchestras. I often practice classical etudes, as well jazz standards.
Not as simple as that I n afraid I ( and bc a good few people I know) find that the patch after a few days starts to rotate and shortly part of the patch is hanging over the side of the mouthpiece which is an irritant and it has to be replaced usually every few days ir maybe a bc week or two max. Any advice please how this can be avoided
Thank you so much it's easy to blow ❤
You're welcome 😊
Thanks, my son struggles with teeth ‘vibrations’ do these mouthpieces prevent that?
Yes, putting a mouthpiece patch on should really help with that.
Hi I'm about to but some of them patches. Can I ask what is the best way to sterilising a second hand MP please ?
Hey I just came across you I'm beginning saxophone any tips?
Hi Micah. Lots of resources on my channel here but a great place to start is my free lesson bundle which has a ‘getting started’ course. You can get it here: www.mcgillmusic.com/saxophone-tool-kit
Why is this the most exciting video??
Why not?
Its a good advice... but nothing more. Not worth it to do a video for this, in my opinion.
Sarcasm.
Hi Nigel, I use patches on both my alto and tenor. What thickness is best.....I have seen them advertised at 0.3mm and 0.8mm. Are the thicker ones better? Due to an accident one of my front teeth is a bit pointed and this tends to go through the patches quite quickly, so I prefer thicker ones.Do you favour a brand or the generic ones you can get from China via ebay???
Good question. I generally use the thicker ones - they feel more comfortable for me. Lots of different brands available but in my opinion it doesn’t matter which. I’ve used generic ones in the past and they have worked great.
Yes. I came here to say, that last week, i accidentally damaged my mouhtpiece by making a slit like hole in it, making a piece come off, and my left tooth is sinking right into it! What do I do? Is thst normal? Its is bad? How can I avoid that? Thanks McGill (sry dont know ur first name ) for these videos. Very helpful! :')
Oh, what i meant is mothpiece pad in first sentence
My left tooth is always a tad deeper than my right tooth
(Sey for all the comments, but ) i remember about 2 weeks back, it started off only as a 'nic' on the rubber patch on mouthpiece.
Hi. It depends on what sort of patch you have on your mouthpiece. If it is just a normal rubber mouthpiece patch that sits on the top of your mouthpiece, you just need to peel it off and replace it with a new one. They are readily available at most music shops.
Hi Nigel, I have a metal Berg Larsen tenor sax mouthpiece. These mouthpieces come with a small black hard rubber section glued into a cut-out slot in the metal of the mouthpiece. I guess the designer's idea was that this hard rubber piece is replaceable if it gets worn. I still use mouthpiece patches but the problem is they don't usually stay stuck for as long as on other mouthpieces as the ridge on the edges of the hard rubber insert allow moisture to get into the glue of the patch. Can you think of anything I can do to get the patches to stick for longer ?
Good question. I’m guessing your hard rubber insert on your Berg is worn a little. I have heard of some people replacing the actual insert to give you a smooth surface again - that way the mouthpiece patch will stay “stuck”.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool Thank for the reply which does confirms I am not alone in think trying to find a solution to this. I will take my mouth piece into my tech who has all sorts of machines and see if he can take out my current insert and grind it down so its more flush with the rest of the mouthpiece so the patches should hopefully grip for longer !
What would be a good mouthpiece patch for my berg Larson alto sax metal mouthpiece? I bought some Yamaha mouthpiece patches and I’ve been cutting them down and it works for now but I’d like to get one that actually fits.
Good question. You could also try using a soprano sax patch on your Berg?
McGill Music Sax School I didn’t think about that, I’ll try it out.
Thank u soooo much this was really helpful :) my mouthpiece was super scratched
Glad it helped!
How do you remove the patch and remove the sticky part that remains on the mp after it's removed?
Hi. They generally just peel off and any sticky residue just comes off easily too.
Rubbing alcohol should remove adhesive left over.
Nigel most of the time my teeth don't rest on the top of the mouthpiece, I guess it should , I guess I am apprehensive that my teeth might Nic it?
Hey Vinny - get a patch on there. It is best to get your top teeth resting on the mouthpiece. It will give you more control over your sound.
Yes I use patches. Change them about every 3 months.
+nr3rful Cool.
Hi Nigel! which size would you recommend? I see patches come in 0.3mm and 0.8mm thickness, do they affect the sound of a mouthpiece like muting vibrations?
Good question Raul, I prefer the thicker ones, they feel more comfortable to me, but it’s personal preference. I’m not sure the thickness affects the sound, but for me the thicker ones are more comfortable. Are you using a metal or hard rubber mouthpiece?
I have a rubber one and I just bought my first metal one, like you it's the Otto Link super tone master, I really loved the Wanne Durga but it's over twice the price of the Otto Link, so it's out of my budget, and I chose based on your suggestions from your mouthpiece video, so thanks for the valuable insight!
Hey Nigel my teeth is very sensitive for vibration. What can i do to relieve it plz help
I’d definitely get a mouthpiece patch Keithon.
I don't chew my mouthpiece badly, unless I'm working on tricks or altissimo. And I've tried some expensive mouthpieces but keep going back to a cheap Yamaha 5c. But I have the thin clear patches on.
+Paul Huffman nothing wrong with a Yam 5c. It’s a good piece.
Does it affect sound in any way???
No not really.
I just started to play saxophone and practice consistently everyday averagely 2 hours without rest break, it’s been the 5th month since I started practicing daily without failed...
I do not have uneven teeth, but there is still an obvious ridge/bite mark on the top of my mouthpiece, and like you said my teeth is automatically only going back to the same place whenever I put my mouthpiece in the mouth...
I believed I have already developed so many bad habits so far... and the most terrible bad habit that makes both of my upper front teeth feel pain/sore after finish practicing, sometimes during practicing as well ...
I am so worried as this is not only affecting my playing and embouchure problems but also my health problems might rise in long term (for example my situation: teeth pain and headache, bottom lip biting and sore)
I wish to overcome this major issue on embouchure, what should I do ?
Do I need to get rid of the current mouthpiece with ridge/bite mark, and get a new mouthpiece to start all over again ?
In this situation do you still suggest to put the patches ? Either on the current mouthpiece (with ridge/bite mark) or on the new mouthpiece?
Your reply and suggestion is much appreciated !!! I thank you in advance !!
🙏🏻🙏🏻🤗🤗
Great question. I would just use a patch on your current mouthpiece. Since you already have a ridge on the mouthpiece you’ll probably find the patches wear through faster, but they are much cheaper than a new mouthpiece and will make playing more comfortable.
McGill Music Sax School okay.. I’ll get patches asap ... Tq so much for your reply and suggestion !! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🤗🤗
I will, I will look up the site you sent us
oh yeah you talk about the mouthpiece patches
I have mouthpiece patches on both my clarinet and soprano sax and I find that I always have some “leaking issues” when I play my clarinet or sax. Maybe I am still getting use to embouchure?
Hi Gemini Dreamer2, I’m guessing the leaking is in the corners of your mouth? If so try thinking more of having a “round” shape with your mouth, kind of like a drawstring bag. That way you are keeping your corners in and it should stop any air leaks. Hope this helps.
McGill Music Sax School thank you so much Nigel🙏🙏😇😇
Hi this is a little late but do those patches ruffle the sound of the sax?
Hi. Actually they don’t affect the sound of the sax at all, they just make playing more comfortable (and protect your mouthpiece too!)
Oke great thanks😁
I have teeth marks in my patch. Should probably get a new one
The other benefit is that they stop your teeth skating around on the beak of the mcp. I use clear very thin ones that seem to last forever. No splits or gouges that can happen with rubber patches.
Do you know of or can recommend a non-rubber patch? I'm allergic :(
That’s a great question. I’m not sure of brands, but I have seen non rubber patches for sale. I hope you find some.
McGill Music Sax School Thank you. I really enjoy your videos. I'm just getting back into playing after 20 years break.
Or get duct tape and layer them in top of the mouthpiece until you get a good cushion
apparently nobody sells that in my country, what do you advise for alternative?
Good question. There are lots of companies that make patches so hopefully you can find an alternative online?
i try using duct tapes but it really screws my embochure hha
(edit) i just found one online but the keywords is 'mouthpiece cushion' not patches
Probably the same thing. Better than duct tape too!
Can I use something else like tape instead of patch, or I can’t do that?
You could use tape but it generally doesn’t last very long. A patch is the best option - they’re cheap and last a long time.
Thanks you! 😁 that what I wanted to know
According to my teacher (ex military bandsman), the nerves of the front top teeth are damaged by long term playing without a patch. Vibrations are transmitted when a bare mouthpiece is used, eventually (over many years), leading to loss of the teeth. BMTS - Bare Mouthpiece Vibration Syndrome. Industrial injury compensation anyone? ;)
Your teacher was pulling your chain.....😂
You forgot to mention they come in different Thickness. The clear ones are thinner than the black ones. On alto and Tenor i play the Black ones, on my Soprano i can only play the CLEAR (THINNER).
+MARKLINMAN1 Good point.
Thanks
Hi, yes I have used mouthpiece patches for several years now to protect my mouthpieces from teeth damage. I also find this gives the tone a more mellow sound. Alan Harper South Australia.
+pam alan harper Cool, interesting that you can hear a sound difference. That’s great!
Hello Nigel, I have a metal mouthpiece for my tenor sax (Silver Guardala Crescent) and I've tried multiple times to get a mouthpiece patch onto it. After 5 minutes of playing, it slips right off, and I've tried trimming the oatch as well to fit the mouthpiece completely, but it still will not work. Any suggestions?
1/16" Double back tape with a pill package plastic cut to size...i use a metal brillhart .
I use them, but only because the vibration of the mouthpiece gives me a headache. It's a silly reason, I suppose, but after having braces as a teen, the vibration killed me.
That's a good reason Sam. Isn't it strange though if you play a mouthpiece without a patch, it feels really weird once you're used to using them.
I use mouthpiece patches.
1/16 " double back tape with a small piece of pill plastic cut to size.....no fuss no musssss!
Do you need a mouthpiece patch if you use dubble lip
Good question. I’ve never used the double lip embouchure.
@@McGillMusicSaxSchool I think you must make a video what the difference is between the two
Can’t play without the patches. Makes a bid difference in comfort of playing .
What mouthpiece patch you stuck on?
Using a mouthpiece pad screwed up my embouchure big time. I cant use them
Nigel
I have one in my mouth piece
no buddy I think they are supposed to go on your mouth piece
It took three quarters of the video to get to the point, but thanks.
Thanks for watching
I didn't know there are people who don't use those lol
they also protect your teeth
Definitely!